Experiencing bleeding during pregnancy can be a terrifying experience for expecting mothers. While it does not always mean something serious is happening, it is essential to find out the cause of bleeding as soon as possible.

Bleeding can vary from light spotting to heavy bleeding, and it can happen at any stage during pregnancy. Here are the causes and possible treatments for bleeding during pregnancy.

Ectopic Pregnancy

Ectopic pregnancy is a rare condition where the fertilized egg implants itself outside the uterus – usually in one of the fallopian tubes. As the embryo develops, it can cause the tube to rupture, leading to internal bleeding.

Women who experience severe abdominal pains, dizziness, and shoulder pain while bleeding during pregnancy may have ectopic pregnancy. This condition requires immediate medical attention and can only be treated through surgery.

Miscarriage

Miscarriage is a common reason why pregnant women may bleed. Miscarriage occurs when the body terminates the pregnancy because of complications or abnormalities.

The signs of a miscarriage include abdominal cramps, heavy bleeding, and severe pain in the lower back. If you suspect that you are having a miscarriage, seek immediate medical attention.

Molar Pregnancy

A molar pregnancy, also known as Gestational Trophoblastic Disease (GTD), is a rare condition where abnormal cells grow in the uterus instead of a developing fetus.

Pregnant women with GTD may experience excessive vaginal bleeding, nausea, vomiting, and a lump in the uterus. The treatment for GTD involves removing the abnormal tissue through surgery and monitoring for signs of cancer.

Placenta Previa

Placenta previa is a condition that can occur during the earlier stages of pregnancy. It is characterized by the placenta attaching itself too low in the uterus, covering the cervix, which can lead to bleeding.

Women with placenta previa may experience sudden, painless bleeding during the second or third trimester. Depending on the severity of the condition, doctors may monitor the pregnancy and prescribe bed rest or recommend a cesarean delivery.

Placental Abruption

Placental abruption is a condition that occurs when the placenta separates prematurely from the uterine wall. This separation can cause bleeding and lead to a lack of oxygen and nutrients for the developing fetus.

Women with placental abruption may experience severe abdominal pain, bleeding, and uterine contractions. This condition needs immediate medical attention and can result in premature delivery or stillbirth.

Cervical Polyps or Infections

Non-threatening conditions such as cervical polyps or infections can cause bleeding during pregnancy. Cervical polyps are growths on the cervix that are usually harmless but can cause bleeding during pregnancy.

Infections or STDs can cause inflammation in the cervix, leading to bleeding. Your healthcare provider will screen you for infections and prescribe medication if necessary. If cervical polyps are the cause, then usually, they can be removed without complications.

Non-Obstetric Causes

Bleeding during pregnancy can also be caused by non-obstetric factors, such as urinary tract infections, hemorrhoids, or sexual intercourse. If bleeding occurs after intercourse, it is often due to a sensitive cervix and is usually harmless.

However, it is still essential to have your healthcare provider check to ensure there is no underlying condition causing the spotting.

Conclusion

Experiencing bleeding during pregnancy is a cause for concern. While it is essential to identify the cause of bleeding, it is equally important to seek immediate medical attention.

Bleeding can be a sign of serious complications, such as placental abruption or ectopic pregnancy, and could lead to preterm labour or loss of the pregnancy. If you suspect that you are experiencing bleeding during pregnancy, contact your healthcare provider immediately.